2013-2016 Mazda CX-5 Rear Door Glass: Privacy Tint vs. Standard and Replacement Guide

Part Identification: This is NOT the Rear Liftgate Glass

It is important to clarify that this article covers the movable glass in the rear passenger doors, not the large, fixed window on the rear liftgate (also known as the back glass or rear windshield). The part numbers and issues discussed here are specific to the left (driver-side) and right (passenger-side) rear door windows that roll up and down.

Variants: Privacy vs. Standard Tint

The 2013-2016 Mazda CX-5 was available with two types of rear door glass: standard clear (light green factory tint) and dark privacy tint. The privacy tint is significantly darker and was typically included on higher trim levels. The two types are not interchangeable if you want the tint to match on both sides of your vehicle. Before purchasing a replacement, you must verify which type you have.

• Standard Glass (Without Dark Tint): This glass has a very light, almost unnoticeable tint. The OEM part number for the rear driver's side is KA0G-73-510A.
• Privacy Glass (With Dark Tint): This is a dark factory tint designed for passenger privacy and to reduce heat. The OEM part number for the rear driver's side is KA0H-73-510A.

Symptoms of Failure

Glass failure is usually obvious, but some symptoms can be misleading and point to a different problem within the door.

1. Shattered or Cracked Glass

This is the most common and undeniable symptom. Tempered glass will break into countless small pieces. This can be caused by:

• Impact: A rock, road debris, or an attempted theft are the most frequent causes.
• Spontaneous Shattering: Though rare, tempered glass can sometimes shatter without any apparent impact. This can be due to a tiny, unnoticed chip on the edge of the glass combined with stress from temperature changes or the vibration of closing a door.

2. Window is Loose, Dropped, or Won't Close Fully

If your window is crooked in its track, has fallen into the door, or stops an inch or two from the top, the glass itself is likely not the problem. These symptoms almost always point to a failed window regulator. The regulator is the mechanical assembly with cables and pulleys that lifts and lowers the glass. The plastic clips that attach the glass to the regulator are a common failure point; they can become brittle and break, detaching the glass from the lift mechanism. If you hear a clicking or grinding noise when you press the window switch but the glass doesn't move, the regulator motor or mechanism has likely failed.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

While there are no official recalls from the NHTSA for the rear door glass on the 2013-2016 Mazda CX-5, owners should be aware of a few related topics.

• No Recalls for Door Glass: Searches of the NHTSA database confirm there are no recalls for shattering or defective rear door glass on this model. A widely known recall concerned replacement windshields from Pilkington with improperly attached sensor brackets, which does not apply to door glass.
• Liftgate Strut Recall: Mazda did recall these vehicles for corroding liftgate support struts that could cause the rear hatch to fall unexpectedly. This is unrelated to the door glass.
• Common Complaint: Wind Noise: Many owners of this CX-5 generation report excessive wind noise from the door area at highway speeds, often sounding like a window is slightly ajar. This is typically caused by the design of the door seals, not the glass itself. Some owners have found success by cleaning and lubricating the rubber door seals or by adding thin foam weatherstripping inside the seal to make it press more firmly against the door. A poorly installed replacement glass can make this condition worse.
🎬 Watch this video to fix the annoying wind whistle noise.

Buying a Used Rear Door Glass: What to Check

Purchasing a used OEM door glass is an excellent way to save money, as fit and quality are identical to the original. However, you must inspect the part carefully before buying.

1. Verify the Tint: This is the most important step. Determine if you need standard (KA0G-73-510A) or privacy (KA0H-73-510A) glass and ensure the used part matches. An mismatched window will be obvious.
2. Inspect the Edges: Carefully run your fingers along all four edges of the glass. Reject any glass that has even a tiny chip, flake, or crack on the edge. These almost invisible flaws create a stress point that can cause the entire window to shatter during installation or later from simple road vibration.
3. Check for Scratches: Hold the glass up to the light and look for deep scratches or excessive pitting from road debris. Minor surface scuffs are normal, but deep scratches can compromise the glass's integrity and obstruct vision.
4. Look for Intact Mounting Points: The glass attaches to the window regulator with clips or clamps that are bonded to the bottom edge. A used glass that comes with these mounting points intact is a much better value and makes installation easier. If they are broken or missing, you may need to transfer them from your old glass, which can be difficult.

Cost Comparison for CX-5 Rear Door Glass

Replacement Difficulty: 3/5

Replacing the rear door glass is a moderately difficult job that a patient DIYer can accomplish with basic tools.

• Estimated Time: 1-1.5 hours
• Tools Required: Phillips screwdriver, plastic trim removal tools, 10mm socket/wrench.
• Process Overview: The job involves removing the interior door panel, carefully peeling back the plastic vapor barrier, lowering the window (if possible) to access the mounting bolts, unbolting the glass from the regulator, and carefully maneuvering the old glass out and the new glass in. The most critical part is cleaning all shattered glass fragments from inside the door cavity before installing the new pane, as leftover pieces can jam the new regulator.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step rear door glass replacement guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)